Nursery Stock Inspections
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) continues to inspect nursery stock during Nursery Dealer and Nursery Grower inspections for insect and disease problems, including EAB. Particular attention is given to ash stock to ensure that EAB is not entering the state. NDA Inspectors also check for labeling of place of origin on nursery stock, as required by the Nebraska Plant Protection and Plant Pest Act, to ensure that all Federal and state quarantines are being followed. NDA is working to educate the nursery industry about this potential threat to ash trees in Nebraska through outreach programs.

Firewood Inspections
In addition to inspecting nursery stock, NDA also inspects firewood. Inspectors check for paperwork showing state of origin, and examine wood for evidence of EAB, or other quarantined pests. While much of the firewood sold in Nebraska is of Nebraska origin, a significant amount comes from other states. No violations of the Federal EAB quarantine were found during 2008 firewood inspections.

EAB Trapping Survey
In 2008, Nebraska participated in the National Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) survey, to better determine the extent of EAB infestations in the U.S. Last summer, approximately 125 purple sticky traps were baited with Manuka oil, set, and monitored across the state by NDA and USDA staff. Both the color purple and the Manuka oil have been found to be highly attractive to EAB adults. Traps were hung approximately 10-12 feet off the ground, in ash trees. Traps were set at sites where introductions are likely, including interstate rest stops, state parks and campgrounds, green waste sites, and nursery locations.

No EAB was detected in Nebraska during the 2008 survey. The survey will continue in 2009.

For more information on the National EAB Trapping Survey, visit www.purpleeabsurvey.info

Think you have found EAB in Nebraska?
If you suspect you have found an EAB infestation in Nebraska, please contact the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at (402) 471-2394 or the national EAB hotline at 866-322-4512.